Read your local newspaper and learn

“Keep focusing on learning during the summer,” wrote Caroline Jones, a Miss Pennsylvania Volunteer. She is certainly right about that.

My opinion is “Keep reading your local newspaper. What a lot you will learn about the goingson in your community — mine is Willow Grove — and even what crimes are being committed.

The variety of news items is as diverse as when the ice cream truck pulls into your neighborhood.

Many folks choose to leave their cars in the driveway, never suspecting that the catalytic converter, when stolen, brings loads of money as it is made from platinum. Who knew?

The Independence Blue Cross Foundation was generous enough to award grants to eligible nursing students at one thousand dollars apiece. What a help that will be. Many of us, such as myself, remember the great care we received from these highly trained and compassionate men and women.

Ever heard of “kratom?” Believe it or not, it is an addictive substance taken from a tropical evergreen tree. By a nearly unanimous vote, the Pennsylvania House banned it. Bill sponsor Rep. Tracy Pennycuick, a Montgomery County Republican told the committee how dangerous it is. Largely unregulated, some children — yes, children — end up in the ER with seizures.

Parents, pay attention to what your children are doing. Years ago, a public service announcement said, “It’s 10 pm. Do you know where your children are?”

Speaking of Republicans, a number have jumped party lines to endorse Josh Shapiro, the current attorney general, for governor. Shapiro had made a name for himself by vigorously going after corruption, including pedophile clergy men and women.

Avoiding scams is important for seniors to read about. How can people be so naive, you will wonder. And yet, my sister saved me from buying something absolutely ridiculous. From a friend of mine!

Set aside a couple of hours, pour yourself some iced lemonade and read your local paper. What better way to be informed and to have something substantial to talk about.